Seeley Lake resident Connie Betson landed this 163.2 pound halibut in Valdez, Alaska, June 23.
VALDEZ, ALASKA - Connie Betson of Seeley Lake caught this Valdez Fishing Derby winner, a 163.2 pound halibut, while fishing with her husband Jim and friend Jerry Posthumus. She caught it on the "Amanda Rose" with skipper Dave Towne June 23.
"I knew it was pretty good sized because I was having problems reeling it in," said Betson. When she started to get tired Betson asked if she could have some help. Towne told her if she had anyone help her reel it in, it voided her derby ticket. "He said just keep reeling," said Betson.
Betson's catch was first for the week and third overall until July 5 when Kim Steiger of Westchester, Pa. caught a 211 pound halibut and bumped her out of the top three. Betson received an embroidered Columbia jacket, a "Winner" t-shirt and gift certificates for businesses around Valdez.
"I was pretty excited," said Betson. "I still haven't quit smiling."
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